Fermented Chicken Feed

I have been delighted to discover making fermented chicken food!  Since discovering this process I have reduced feed costs by 40% and productivity is up!  This method is simple and takes a low start-up investment. Special thanks to Marvelous Mud Washing Machine for turning me onto this money saving tip.  Check out her blog, it's worth it!

Materials List

• 1   5 gallon bucket with lid
• 1   2 gallon bucket (no lid required)
• Drill
• 1/4" drill bit
• 1 bottle raw unpasteurized Apple Cider Vinegar
• Chicken feed/grains
• water

Step 1

Drill holes in the 2 gallon bucket along the bottom and up the sides for drainage.  As you can see by my pictures I have several.  This is so water can get into the grains and out.  Do not drill holes so big as your feed will come out.  You only need to go 1/2 way up the sides of the 2 gallon bucket.

Step 2

Place 2 gallon bucket inside 5 gallon bucket.

Fill 5 gallon bucket with water until it is 1/2 way up the  small bucket.

Add 1 cup Raw unfiltered ACV.

Step 3
Place chicken feed and desired grains in small bucket, filling only half full.
Put lid on 5 gallon bucket.
Leave for 3-5 days until bubbly.  This means the microbes are taking off.


Step 4
This is important!
Remove inside bucket, holding over large bucket.
Place two sticks across the top of the bucket for the little bucket to sit on and drain or it is messy.
I just sit it there and go collect eggs.  When I return it's ready.  Give chickens their fermented feed.

Now you have the microbial action going.  Just add more water, refill inside bucket, and return in ONE DAY! Pour more ACV in from time to time. It's that easy.


Note:  At first my chickens didn't like it.  But now they gobble it up!  The increased moisture fills the hens up quicker and avoids waste.  I am adding chopped garlic to help with parasite control.